Highlights
- Go on safari drives in Kruger National Park and learn about the wildlife
- Savor grilled meat and be entertained at an authentic boma dinner
- Hike along secluded paths surrounding the stunning beauty of Victoria Falls
- Cruise along the Zambezi River as you watch the sunset with a cocktail
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Johannesburg, Transfer to Sabi Sands Game Reserve | Sabi Sands Game Reserve |
| Days 2-3 | Two Days of Game Drives in Kruger National Park | Sabi Sands Game Reserve |
| Day 4 | Morning Game Drive, Transfer to Johannesburg | Johannesburg |
| Day 5 | Fly to Victoria Falls, Evening Boma Dinner | Victoria Falls |
| Day 6 | Guided Tour of Victoria Falls, Sunset Zambezi River Cruise | Victoria Falls |
| Day 7 | Fly to Johannesburg & Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Johannesburg, Transfer to Sands Game Reserve
Welcome to South Africa! After arriving in Johannesburg, you'll catch a flight to Hoedspruit, a town near the world-famous Kruger National Park. A driver will be waiting to take you to your accommodation in Sabi Sands Game Reserve. The park was created in 1926 and is a must-see destination for unforgettable wildlife experiences. After arriving at the lodge, take some time to freshen up and relax. Have a drink at the bar to unwind, go for a swim, or stroll around to stretch your legs after the day's travel.
In the afternoon, board an open Land Cruiser for your first game drive in the park. The three-hour drive is an exciting opportunity to see Africa's big wildlife up close, including the famous Big Five—elephants, buffalo, rhinos, lions, and leopards. As darkness falls, you'll keep your eyes peeled for nighttime animals as you cruise around the park in comfort.Days 2-3: Two Days of Game Drives in Kruger National Park
Over the next two days, you'll embark on a series of safaris throughout Kruger National Park. Nothing is predictable in the bush, so each excursion offers a unique opportunity to see African wildlife. Your guides will share specialized knowledge about the park's birds, animals, and medicinal plants. They'll also share local folklore, basic tracking, and traditional survival techniques.
Each day will include two game drives, starting at dawn as the sun rises over the savanna. Spend time observing the flora and fauna of Kruger, stopping along the way to visit busy waterholes, scenic viewpoints, and beautiful picnic sites, where you can take a break from all the wildlife spotting and stretch your legs. Return to camp for some relaxation, and enjoy a late lunch before heading back out for the afternoon/night game drive. After an unforgettable Kruger sunset and an evening of nocturnal animal spotting, you'll return to camp each evening to enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars.
Day 4: Morning Game Drive, Transfer to Johannesburg
After an early morning wake-up, enjoy coffee with rusks (a South African dehydrated cookie), then venture out on a final morning game drive to see more wildlife. Birders will delight in the hundreds of species found in Kruger, including the southern yellow-billed hornbill, crested barbet, and Burchell's glossy starling. As you keep your eyes open for one last glimpse of the park's elephants, lions, and zebras, listen to the soundtrack of the chirping of tree frogs and the wind blowing through the savanna grass.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 5: Fly to Victoria Falls, Evening Boma Dinner
Bid farewell to Johannesburg and head to the airport to catch a flight north to Victoria Falls. Known in the native Lozi as "Mosi-oa-Tunya," or "the smoke that thunders," this great wonder of the natural world is located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, where the Zambezi River plummets over steep basalt cliffs to form one of the broadest, most dramatic waterfalls on earth. Upon arrival, your driver will transfer you to your hotel for check-in.
You'll have the remainder of the day free so rest up for this evening's unforgettable boma dinner. Boma is a Swahili word for an enclosure. In this case, it means a fence or wall to protect people gathering for dinner from any wildlife visitors. There is an open fire, storytelling, dancing, drumming, and a robust meal to share with fellow travelers. Revel in sumptuous, traditional Zimbabwe dishes grilled over open flames.Day 6: Guided Tour of Victoria Falls, Sunset Zambezi River Cruise
Head out early with your guide for a closer look at Victoria Falls. The first stop is the Big Tree, a massive baobab that is hundreds of years old with a circumference of 72 feet (22 m). Enjoy the cool air mist as you hike along trails skirting the cascades with spectacular viewpoints along the way. You'll also have plenty of free time to try out some of the area's many adventurous activities. Take a safari ride atop an elephant, soar by helicopter over the falls, raft down the Zambezi River, or take the ultimate leap on a bungee jump.
Tonight you'll experience the magical colors of the Zambezi River at dusk with a wonderful cocktail cruise. After a transfer to the jetty, board your riverboat and enjoy your favorite drink on the deck. As you glide downstream, take in all of the sights and sounds. Finally, savor a spectacular South African sunset while keeping an eye out for the silhouettes of elephants and hippos along the shore.
Day 7: Fly to Johannesburg & Depart
More Great South Africa Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to South Africa? Check out these other South Africa itineraries, explore different ways to spend a week in South Africa, or discover the best time to visit South Africa.
Map
